New projects for Dan Aykroyd

Showbiz-wise, the comedian, who cracked up viewers of the Saturday Night Live 40th Anniversary Celebration last month, just launched a record label. Aykroyd and John Belushi's widow, Judy Belushi, have dedicated Blues Brothers Records to the development of blues artists. They’re seeking talent; hit them up at submissions@bluesbrothersrecords.com.

Aykroyd, 62, is also working on a new Ghostbusters flick with his production company Ghost Corps, along with Ivan Reitman and (yes!) Channing Tatum.

Business-wise, the soul man is still shilling his diamond-filtrated Crystal Head Vodka, in the cool glass skull bottle. He’s set to appear from 2-4 p.m. Friday at ABC Fine Wine & Spirits in Sunrise (954-846-2414). Afterward, the Trading Places star will travel to Stache drinking den in Fort Lauderdale starting at 8 p.m. Friday. These celebrity types are typically late, so don’t plan on punctuality. (We love ya, anyway, Dan, even though you did not call to discuss the story as planned.)

Pay for a $70 “VIP package,” and you get access to the star for a meet and greet, which includes a bottle of Crystal Head. Some general admission tickets for the Blues Brothers Soul Band 9 p.m. show at Stache are available; Aykroyd’s reps stress he will not be performing.

‘BIG’ OPPORTUNITY

Think you have what it takes to survive Big Brother? Try your luck Saturday at an open casting call for Season 17 of CBS’ popular reality show, which follows a group of strangers living together in a house outfitted with dozens of cameras and microphones that record their every move 24/7. One by one, the “guests” vote each other out until at the end of three months. Doesn’t sound appealing, until your hear the grand prize: The last one standing (or usually, sitting) wins $500,000. According to the casting director, ideal candidates “possess an outgoing, intriguing and competitive personality.” BB’s Season 6 star, Plantation native Ashlea Evans, will be on hand if you need some tips on how to clinch a spot.

The auditions, from 2-5 p.m. at Siena Tavern, 404 Washington Ave., Miami Beach, are open to U.S. citizens, age 21 and up. Pre-register at www.cbs.com/casting

EARLY NIGHT

CSI Miami legend David Caruso visited Bagatelle in Miami Beach Saturday night. Arriving in the early evening for dinner dressed in all black, the actor and friends shared the charcuterie and cheese platter and catch of the day (red snapper). Spies say the actor drank only soda water and headed home by 10 p.m.

MADELEINE MARR

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About Madeleine Marr

Former fashion and food writer Madeleine Marr joined the Miami Herald in 2003. The native New Yorker's celebrity coverage includes features, interviews, events, red carpets, premieres, award ceremonies, style, news and gossip in the South Florida area and beyond.